Intracept Procedure for Vertebrogenic Low Back Pain

What Is the Intracept Procedure?

The Intracept procedure is a minimally invasive treatment designed to relieve chronic vertebrogenic low back pain by targeting the basivertebral nerve inside the vertebral body. Unlike treatments that focus on muscles, nerves, or joints, Intracept addresses pain signals at their source when the spine itself is generating pain. This FDA-cleared therapy uses basivertebral nerve ablation to interrupt pain transmission without implants, hardware, or long-term medications.

At EmergeOrtho-Triangle Region, Intracept is part of a comprehensive, patient-centered approach within our interventional pain management and rehab medicine in the Triangle Area. Our goal is to treat pain accurately, conservatively, and effectively while preserving long-term function and mobility.

Understanding Vertebrogenic Low Back Pain

Vertebrogenic low back pain originates from the vertebral bodies themselves rather than from discs, joints, muscles, or nerves exiting the spine. It is associated with Modic changes seen on an MRI, which reflect inflammation and degeneration inside the vertebrae.

This type of pain is different from other common causes of back pain:

• Facet joint pain: Originates in the small joints between vertebrae
• Muscular pain: Involves muscle strain or soft tissue injury
• Radicular pain: Radiates into the legs due to nerve compression

Vertebrogenic pain is transmitted by the basivertebral nerve, making it uniquely responsive to targeted nerve ablation for back pain using the Intracept system.

How Basivertebral Nerve Ablation Works

The basivertebral nerve transmits pain signals from damaged vertebral endplates oftentimes due to degenerative disc disease. Basivertebral nerve ablation uses controlled radiofrequency energy to deactivate the painful signaling within the vertebra. This decreases the painful signals being sent to the brain.

The procedure is minimally invasive. In simple terms:

• A small access pathway is created into the vertebra
• The Intracept device is guided to the basivertebral nerve
• Radiofrequency energy is applied
• Pain signaling is disrupted at the source

This nerve ablation procedure does not affect spinal stability, movement, or structure. It simply interrupts the pain pathway, allowing long-term relief without implants or permanent hardware.

Who May Be a Candidate for Intracept?

Not all patients with back pain are candidates for Intracept. Eligibility is determined through a detailed clinical evaluation and advanced imaging.

Patients may qualify if they:

• Have chronic low back pain lasting six months or longer
• Have not responded to conservative treatments
• Show MRI evidence of Modic Type 1 or Type 2 changes
• Have pain localized to the lower back
• Do not have a dominant disc herniation or instability as the primary cause

Our specialists in interventional pain management and physical medicine and rehabilitation collaborate to determine whether vertebrogenic pain is the true source of symptoms before recommending Intracept.

What To Expect Before, During, and After the Procedure

Before the procedure:
Patients undergo diagnostic imaging, clinical evaluation, and treatment planning to confirm vertebrogenic pain and ensure proper candidacy.

During the procedure:
The procedure is performed at the hospital or surgery center using image guidance. A small probe is placed into the vertebra, and radiofrequency energy is applied to perform basivertebral nerve ablation. The process is precise, controlled, and minimally invasive.

After the procedure:
Patients return home the same day. Recovery is quick, with most patients resuming light activities within days. Pain relief develops gradually as inflammation resolves and pain signaling pathways remain disrupted.

Clinical Evidence and FDA Clearance

The Intracept system is FDA-cleared and supported by multiple peer-reviewed clinical studies. Published data show that many patients experience long-term, durable relief.

Key clinical outcomes include:

• Nearly 70% of people were able to get back to doing things they enjoyed before their back pain started
• 75% of patients still experience improvements in pain and daily activities after five years

These outcomes highlight the durability and effectiveness of basivertebral nerve ablation for properly selected patients with vertebrogenic low back pain.

How Intracept Fits Into EmergeOrtho’s Pain Management Approach

At EmergeOrtho-Triangle Region, Intracept is not a standalone solution; it is part of a comprehensive interventional pain strategy that includes diagnostics, conservative care, rehabilitation, and advanced procedures. Interventional pain management specialist Dr. Robert Baranello explains,

“Basivertebral nerve ablation is a minimally invasive, evidence-based solution for patients with chronic vertebrogenic low back pain. It’s changed the game by treating the source. No implants. Just freedom.”

This philosophy ensures that patients receive the right treatment at the right time, based on diagnosis rather than symptoms.

Learn More About Advanced Pain-Relief Options

If chronic low back pain is limiting your quality of life, advanced interventional solutions may offer lasting relief. Explore our full interventional pain management and rehab medicine programs to learn how innovative treatments like Intracept fit into a comprehensive care plan.

If you are seeking personalized care and next-step solutions, you can request your appointment today.